The six returning starters are almost half as many as what Alabama returned from its national championship run of 2009, and the Crimson Tide didn't repeat. The previous four national champions lost between five and 12 starters, and none of them repeated.

Of course Newton is gone after just the one year and likely to be the No. 1 overall pick in next week’s NFL draft. Stud defensive tackle Nick Fairley, who dominated in the national title game against Oregon, also is gone and should be a Top-10 pick. Two veteran linebackers and the top two receivers also have moved on. There will be only one starter back on each line. Overall Auburn lost its leading passer, leading rusher, two of its top four receivers, four starting offensive linemen, top two pass rushers and four of its top five tacklers  The returning starters are led by running back Michael Dyer. Of course he had the crucial play late against the Ducks and should be one of the nation’s top players at his position.

Certainly the big question is who replaces Newton. Barrett Trotter and Clint Moseley are battling for that job. At the recent spring game, Moseley completed 9 of 15 passes for 82 yards with no touchdowns and no interceptions. Trotter was 6-of-12 passing for 120 yards, including a 19-yard touchdown pass to tight end Phillip Lutzenkirchen. Offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn said the competition will likely continue into August.

"Until we know who gives us the best chance to win and it's 110 percent, we won't make the call," Malzahn said. "The first year we were here we didn't make the call (until August). Last year, we did it a week after. It's just like any other position, when we're 110 percent certain sure we'll do that."

Auburn is 75/1 to win the national title on Bodog’s NCAA football odds and opens its season Sept. 3 vs. Utah State.

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